Places > Memorial Park Eastern Glades Planting

Memorial Park Eastern Glades Planting

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Location
Texas | Houston
Solution
Stormwater Management & Water Quality

CONTACT

Tanner Garth

M: 713.898.3258

RES was selected as subcontractor to Shooter and Lindsey, Inc. to aid in a portion of the reclamation and restoration of 100 acres of previously inaccessible and ecologically distressed parkland as part of the Eastern Glades project at Memorial Park.

Our team planted more than 50,000 aquatic plants, comprised of more than 20 different native species, in the shallow areas of the five-acre Hines Lake near the boardwalks. These native aquatic species support 1.5 acres of emergent wetlands. The species planted in Hines Lake were specifically chosen due to the numerous benefits they provide this ecosystem. The fruit of these plants provides food for waterfowl and other bird species, while the flowers attract bees and other insects, such as dragonflies. These plants also provide aquatic habitat that helps promote and sustain wildlife, including frogs, ducks, and fish. In addition to the numerous benefits to the biota of the area, these plants also play an integral role in stormwater management, cleaning the stormwater that flows through the Lake on its way to Memorial Park’s largest tributary, Buffalo Bayou. For example, Pickerelweed has a dense, mat-like root system that can trap and hold sediment in place and withstand heavy flooding, helping to prevent erosion. Other species planted within Hines Lake, include, but are not limited to, Arrow Arum, Smooth Rush, Softstem Bulrush, Powdery Flag Thalia, Watershied, and Maidencane.

In addition to planting native aquatic plants, our experienced crew, led by a certified herbicide applicator, performed invasive management via herbicide application to ensure that native plants have the best chance of survival.

Project Highlights

  • Planted over 50,000 aquatic plants in the shallow areas of the 5-acre Hines Lake and near the boardwalks, creating 1.5 acres of emergent wetland
  • Installed 20 different native wetland species
  • Provides stormwater management and aquatic habitat for local biota
  • Managed invasive species via herbicide application